OBITUARIES

James Philip “Jim” Latimer, age 82, of Webb City, departed this life peacefully on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Freeman Hospital West in Joplin. He entered this life on Dec. 29, 1942, in Carthage, the only child born to the late James Ellis and Virginia Lee (Cunningham) Latimer. Jim’s life was marked by his unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his community.

Raised in Neosho, Jim was a graduate of Neosho High School, class of 1961. His thirst for knowledge and passion for design led him to pursue higher education at Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kan., where he earned his bachelor’s degree in architecture. He was an active member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.

Jim faithfully served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Upon his return, he married the love of his life, Karen Eskridge, on Feb. 15, 1969. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with three daughters: Tammy, Leigh and Jenny. The family settled in Webb City in 1975.

Throughout his career as an architect, Jim’s talent and vision could be seen in the structures and schools he designed and the communities he helped shape. He retired in 2012 from his firm, PLJBD Architects Inc., leaving behind a portfolio of work that spoke to his meticulous nature and creative spirit.

Jim was a pillar of the Webb City community, actively involved in various organizations. He was a longtime member of Central United Methodist Church. He served on numerous boards, including the Webb City Library, Webb City Historical Society, Webb City Parks Board, and the Webb City R-7 Hall of Fame Committee. His volunteerism was well known, especially through Webb City CARES and Friends of the Library.

An avid sports fan, Jim was a devoted supporter of the St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, and all Webb City sports, with a special place in his heart for Webb City football. As a member of the “Gate Keepers Club,” he never missed a chance to cheer on his beloved Cardinals from the 50 yard line. Jim’s presence was a constant at his grandchildren’s sporting events, where he proudly watched them grow and excel.

Jim was an accomplished golfer, enjoying the camaraderie and challenge of the game. His giving heart was evident in all he did, and his wonderful penmanship was a small but cherished signature of his attention to detail.

Jim leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, Karen Latimer of the home; daughters, Tammy Martin and husband Shaun, Wildwood, Leigh Miller and husband Michael, Webb City, and Jenny Parker and husband Eric, Webb City; eight grandchildren, Alexandra Paschke and husband Ethan, Caden Miller and wife Katherine, Zachary Martin, Treghan Parker, Drake Miller, Zoe Martin, Elijah Miller and Briella Parker; a special niece, Lauren Eskridge; and a host of other family members and friends.

A service to honor and celebrate Jim’s life will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Central United Methodist Church in Webb City, with Pastor Chris Jackson officiating. Prior to the service, the family will receive friends beginning at 11 a.m. at the church.

Burial, with full military honors, will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Caden Miller, Zachary Martin, Ethan Paschke, Treghan Parker, Drake Miller and Elijah Miller. Memorial contributions may be made to either Central United Methodist Church or The Webb City Schools Foundation Latimer Scholarship Fund, in care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home.